bruce wardell

bruce wardell, aia, ifraa

founding principal

Bruce is Founder and Principal of brwarchitects, and a public leader in Charlottesville whose skill in design is enhanced by a deep sensitivity to human relationships. His work has been recognized by state and local AIA chapters for both design excellence and his commitment to serving the community. Community service has been a cornerstone of his practice of architecture, beginning with his role as Assistant Government Architect for the Peace Corps in the Kingdom of Tonga in the 1970’s.

He is a founding member and former Chairman of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville, has served as President of AIA Central Virginia, on the Board of Directors for the Center for Christian Study, on the Board of New City Arts, and as National Co-Chair for the AIA Subcommitee for Early Childhood Learning Environments.

Among his accomplishments are landmark urban planning projects in Charlottesville’s downtown area such as The Belmont Lofts and The Crossings, a Single Room Occupancy shelter for formerly homeless residents, as well as the first LEED-Silver certified Women’s Emergency Shelter in the nation. For The Crossings, Bruce was named Design Professional of the Year award from the City of Charlottesville. Bruce developed the resident-led redevelopment expertise at BRW and was an integral part of the teams at Southwood and South First Street.

Many notable Virginia architects have begun their career under Bruce’s mentorship. His approach to business is deeply compassionate, endlessly creative, and committed to the highest standards of excellence. His attention to drafting by hand has provided the foundation for a new generation of digital technologies, shaping the firm’s deep expertise in ecclesiastical design, residential design, historic renovation and master planning.

Bruce and his wife, Ginny, raised four children in Charlottesville. He can most often be found bike riding, walking his dog, Titan, or running into friends on the downtown mall.

bookshelf

Culture Making by Andy Crouch

Evicted by Matthew Desmond

The Undoing Project by Michael Lewis

highlights